Shorter ACA Open Enrollment Begins Nov. 1

Starting Nov. 1, individuals without group health coverage will have the opportunity to change their current plan, insurance carrier, or obtain coverage when the annual Affordable Care Act (ACA) open enrollment period begins.  Individual plans purchased during the open enrollment period will be effective on Jan. 1, 2018.

The open enrollment period ends Dec. 15, 2017, and will be the last chance individuals have to obtain or change their coverage for 2018 unless they have a qualifying event.  This year’s open enrollment period is about a month and a half shorter than previous enrollments, so it’s crucial for those seeking coverage to apply as soon as possible.

A qualifying event or special enrollment period will be required to obtain coverage outside of the open enrollment period.  Individuals without health coverage may be subject to a tax penalty under the ACA.

Qualifying events allow individuals to apply for health coverage outside of open enrollment.  Examples of qualifying life events include:

• Involuntary loss of coverage through employer plan
• No longer a dependent
• Marriage
• Birth or adoption
• Permanent move causing current plan to be involuntarily terminated

The special enrollment period generally gives you a 60-day time period in which to apply and obtain coverage on the individual market.

Do you need help determining your eligibility for coverage?  Contact a Caravus Individual Market consultant for more information.